Arslan Farqooq from Erdington, Birmingham, has admitted causing the death of motorist Simon West

A driver has pleaded guilty today (Friday, May 19) to causing the death of motorist Simon West with a single punch during a road rage incident.

Arslan Farooq, 25, of Gipsy Lane, Erdington, Birmingham entered his guilty plea at a preliminary hearing at the Birmingham Crown Court to the manslaughter of Mr West, aged 51, following the incident last year. Arslan Farooq also admitted driving dangerously.

On 10 December 2022, Arslan Farooq was driving on Causeway Green Road and the Wolverhampton Road, A4123, in Oldbury when he dangerously tailgated Mr West. He then drove from his own lane towards Mr West’s van in the parallel lane in an aggressive manoeuvre before pulling across the front of Mr West’s van.

The pair got out of their respective vehicles and Arslan Farooq approached and punched Mr West, causing Mr West to lose consciousness. Mr West was taken to hospital where he had surgery for a head injury, but he sadly passed away four days later. Farooq will be sentenced on 21 July 2023 at Birmingham Crown Court.

Emily Clewer of the Crown Prosecution Service said: “Arslan Farooq behaved highly aggressively and dangerously and there is no justification for his behaviour. His actions have devastated Mr West’s family and our thoughts are with them at this time. I hope this case serves as a reminder of the dangers of road rage and how those who behave in ways that endanger others can expect to be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”